General

To say that Foxy Shepherd's Hut has a scenic setting would be something of an understatement. This pretty, traditional hut sits cosily in an ancient cider orchard that's within a four-acre garden - a magical landscape that features not just woodland walks (carpeted with bluebells in spring) but also rare and exotic plants, granite megaliths, standing stones, little ponds and even a pair of sun loungers tucked away in a secret garden. As you might expect, it's a haven for wildlife (beware badger holes!) - all in all, this is the perfect glamping getaway for lovers of nature and the great outdoors. The hut features a small veranda leading directly from its French doors, plus a large raised deck with a wood-fired hot tub and a rustic dining area (complete with a quirky flock of carved wooden sheep); the perfect place in which to listen to the dawn chorus, relax with a good book, chill with a glass of wine or watch the sun set and the stars come out one by one. In the orchard there's also a secluded fire-pit barbecue, perfect for toasting marshmallows or even trying your hand at an al fresco meal - a blissful spot in which to sit and eat.

The hut itself has been carefully designed to ensure complete cosiness and comfort, with books, ornaments and original artefacts for you to enjoy. The compact, pretty and well-equipped wooden galley kitchen features a two-ring ceramic hob, microwave, small fridge (with an ice box) and toaster, and opposite is a sweet dining area with a pair of stools and retro-style radio. The double bed, with its pretty linens, has a memory foam/coil mattress for extra-special comfort, and boasts room to store small suitcases beneath, plus there's more storage in the form of a single wardrobe and cupboard. Incidentally, there's a utility-room with a washing machine and small freezer on site, too (it's shared with guests at the lovely owners' other properties - all of which are set apart and private), while in the hut there is, of course, an en suite shower-room complete with walk-in shower, wc, slender wash-basin and as much hot and cold running water as you could require. There are even automatic lights to help guide you in the night - watching out for the low doorway and ceiling! Peace and quiet, a gorgeous getaway with simplicity, style and all the mod-cons you could require: this is luxury camping with pure panache.

Out and About

For all its isolated tranquility, this is a great location for getting out and about. First things first, a short stroll down the lane takes you to the local pub, the historic White Hart, which offers a warm welcome and a selection of freshly cooked, locally-sourced meals. Hop in the car for a short drive to the ever-popular town of St Ives, with its refurbished and extended Tate Gallery, plus a range of beaches and loads of interesting shops and great places to eat. The market town of Penzance (take a swim in its fab Art Deco lido!) is also close by, as is the village of Marazion, the starting point for a visit to the unique St Michael's Mount - walk the causeway at low tide or catch a little boat when the water's in. Mousehole is always a draw, an incredibly pretty village for a wander, and the cliff-top Minack Theatre shouldn't be missed, adjacent to the glorious sandy beach at Porthcurno. Talking of coastal activities, try your hand at surfing, paddle boarding, sea kayaking or kite surfing, all available nearby, or venture a little further afield with a visit to the shops and restaurants of the Cathedral City of Truro, Cornwall's capital; maybe even take a day trip on the ferry from Penzance over to the glorious Isles of Scilly, where you'll find beautiful scenery, great food and a relaxed vibe that's like no other.

Pricing

All prices are £ per week per cottage. Where applicable the prices are inclusive of VAT. The prices are specified for Saturday changeover dates.

For weekly holidays or short breaks beginning on Wednesday, Thursday or Friday the price for the following Saturday applies. For those beginning on Sunday, Monday or Tuesday the price for the previous week applies.

Bed linen and towels are included in the price. In addition, many cottages also include electricity and central heating within the price and this should be taken into consideration when comparing prices. There are no extra charges for cots or high chairs where they are listed in the property description on the Web site.